Illuminating South Africa's Literary Horizon - DSAC Publishing Hub Unveils 21 Unique Works

In a resounding celebration of South African literature, the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) and the Academic and Non-Fiction Authors Association of South Africa (ANFASA) proudly unveil the results of the DSAC Publishing Hub's 2023/24 Call for Manuscripts. This year's initiative has seen an overwhelming response, with 21 exceptional manuscripts selected for publication.

The literary world is set to witness a remarkable event as DSAC and ANFASA join forces to present the DSAC Publishing Hub Book Launch. Scheduled for 29 February 2024 at Distong Museum of Cultural History in Pretoria, this event marks the culmination of a groundbreaking collaboration that has given rise to 21 extraordinary books, including three masterpieces thoughtfully translated into Braille. Orchestrated with the collaborative efforts of four esteemed publishing houses, these literary endeavors promise to enrich the nation's cultural tapestry, offering readers an array of choices that celebrate linguistic diversity and illuminate unique perspectives.

The four publishing houses include - Dee Wee Productions, Evera Publishing, Jacana Media, and Maluks Books. Each of these publishing giants contributes a unique flavour to the diverse literary tapestry of South Africa.

Dee Wee Productions: Renowned for extending publishing opportunities to authors based in the rural parts of South Africa, and is known for inclusivity and regional representation.

Evera Publishing: Established in 2014, Evera Publishing is the proud home of the internationally renowned Blackbird Books. Led by the visionary Thabiso Mahlape, this trailblazing company continues to redefine the literary landscape.

Jacana Media: A ground-breaking and fiercely independent publisher, Jacana Media is dedicated to publishing works from some of the most imaginative, award-winning, and clear-thinking minds of our time.

Maluks Books: With a notable focus on autobiographies of legendary musicians, Maluks Books has left an indelible mark on the literary world by preserving the life stories of some of South Africa's iconic figures.

"As South Africa commemorates 30 years of democracy, a pivotal moment coinciding with the upcoming national polls, the DSAC Publishing Hub emerges as an important force amplifying the diverse voices that define our nation. The unveiling of the 2023/24 Call for Manuscripts is a testament to the enduring commitment of DSAC and ANFASA to empower authors and breathe new life into our publishing landscape. In my capacity as Chairman of ANFASA, I extend a heartfelt invitation to skilled authors to entrust us with their manuscripts, as together, we continue to shape the narrative of South African literature." says Prof Ngubane, the Chairman of ANFASA.

Among the exceptional manuscripts supported by the DSAC Publishing Hub, two standout creations promise to captivate readers and contribute profoundly to South African literature.

"Umrhayili" by Mafika Jetro Mahlangu:

In this isiNdebele novel, Mafika Jetro Mahlangu intricately weaves a narrative that artfully contrasts traditional laws of old with the modern legal systems of today. With finesse, "Umrhayili" captures the tension between past and present, offering not only entertainment but also an invitation to reflect on the evolving values and norms within our society.

"Molayakgosi" by Motshegofatsi Pitsane:

Hailing from Galotlhare Village in Kuruman, Northern Cape, Motshegofatsi Pitsane, raised by a single mother, unveils her compelling Setswana novel, "Molayakgosi." Despite her Grade 8 status at Iketleletso Middle School in Mothibistad, Motshegofatsi's youthful wisdom shines through the pages as she delves into the dark realm of a chief driven to heinous acts by the absence of an heir. Notably, her impactful work has been thoughtfully converted into Braille, ensuring accessibility to a broader audience.

The Comprehensive list of all recipients and publishing houses include:-

Dee Wee Productions

Lerato Tsele - Sesotho - "Kgodiso Ya Ngwana"Mafika Jetro Mahlangu - Isindebele - "Umrhayili"Marcia Mhlongo - Isizulu - "Egameni Lothando"Ruel Bandi Mabanga - Xitsonga - "Mano"Sibongile Gondwe - Siswati - "Lavela Liciniso"

Evera Publishing

Anele Kose - Isixhosa - "Iingxoxo Zelobola"Fhulufhelo Ntsieni - Tshivenda - "Rudzani"Gilbert Motsaathebe - English - "Dark Leaves"Kabelo Duncan Kgatea - Setswana - "Metlhala Ya Badimo"Makaepeya Christinah Malema - Sepedi - "Mediro Ya Kgosi Leobu"

Jacana Media

Bonham Jayden Jimmy Kukari - Afrikaans - "Die Kleine Klitse"Bulelani Matshoba - Isixhosa - "Akwaba Ndandingambonanga"Elias Thapelo Mailula - Sepedi - "Ke Mararankodi"Motshegofatsi Brillant Pitsane - Setswana - "Molayakgosi"Mukovhe Radzilani - Tshivenda - "Davha La Maviavhathu"

Maluks Books

Happy Simelane - Isizulu - "Thandeka"Letshase Phillip Nakeli - Sesotho - "Bophelo Ke Malepa"Sthembiso Tevin Mathebula - Siswati - "Umjezisithe - Punisher"Thabi Nancy Mahamba - Isindebele - "Ongathandwa Ngunina"Themba Patrick Magaisa - Xitsonga - "Xilwa Na Dzana"

For media inquiries, please contact: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 011 788 7632 or 083 954 6133

-- ENDS --

Issued by JT Communication Solutions on Behalf of ANFASA - https://www.anfasa.org.za/ 

Note to Editor:

Please join us at the DSAC Publishing Hub Book Launch, a celebration of 21 remarkable literary works born out of the collaboration between the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) and the Academic and Non-Fiction Authors Association of South Africa (ANFASA). The event is scheduled for 29 February 2024, from 11:00 to 16:00, at Distong Museum of Cultural History in Pretoria. We extend a warm invitation to you to join us and celebrate these literary triumphs that echo the diverse voices of South African authors. Your presence will undoubtedly contribute to the success of this monumental event.